Back To School Resource Guide

As summer draws to a close, LoveToKnow has assembled the definitive back-to-school resource guide to help you with everything you need to get ready for fall. Whether you are gathering school supplies, need new backpacks for your brood, shopping for clothes or just wracking your brain for great packable lunch ideas, we've got the goods!

• Send the kids back to the classroom in high style. Check out the best kids hair styles to kick-off the school year.
• See the hottest back to school looks for teens in this slideshow.
• Sending someone to college? These tips for dorm decorating are just what you need!

Is your child nervous about his or her first day of school? Get expert tips from author Anna Jane Hays on how to best prepare your child for this exciting new experience or get ideas for ways to make the first day of kindergarten go smoothly. Our forum contributors also have great suggestions for commemorating the first day of school with your kids.

If your budget is tight, back-to-school may mean worry for your wallet. However, we have ten ways you can save money on everything you need for starting the school year:

1. If you are really strapped for cash, look into organizations that offer free school supplies for kids in need.
2. Kids outgrow their clothing, but a new wardrobe doesn't have to break the bank. Learn the best ways to find inexpensive kids' clothes
3. Check for local sales on school supplies. Often, office supply stores and major retailers sell standard supplies for under a dollar to attract buyers. Stick to your list and shop around to get all your goods for very little.
4. Some things in life are free. Look for free giveaways and product samples for everything from snacks and school supplies to slightly used dorm room furniture and electronics.
5. Tutoring can be pricey, but there is academic help available for free. Free teen homework help may be the most valuable thing you can offer your child for school success!
6. Bag lunches can be so much more than a sandwich and chips, without costing a fortune. Get creative with the food you pack in your kids' lunches with our feature on lunch box ideas.
7. If your child attends a school that requires uniforms, it may actually save you money over the long run. To save money on the initial outlay for uniform gear, try these tips on getting school uniforms for a discount.
8. Look for free and low cost community services and activities for children. School means lots of reading, but you can borrow books from school and local libraries. Many after-school sports, clubs and groups for kids are free or very low cost, so kids can get involved inexpensively.
9. Get ready for school with these fun and inexpensive back to school activities, including how to organize a book swap party to recycle those used paperbacks!
10. While it may be too late for college students to find scholarships for this year, now is the time to start applying for next year's financial aid.

If your child is looking for homework help, check out Free Online Tutoring: Scholastic Interview on LoveToKnow Save to learn more about how Scholastic's Homework Hub can put him on the path to academic success.

Comment and let us know your favorite ways to ease back into the school year!

• Children Playing
• 10 Parenting Tips
• Halloween Trivia for Kids
• Bible Trivia for Kids
• Trivia Questions for Kids

• Disney Princess Coloring Pages
• Teen Birthday Party Ideas
• Pros and Cons of School Uniforms
• Children's Birthday Cake Ideas
• Kids' Hair Styles

• Garden Themes for Preschool Children
• Category:Child Education
• Main Page
• ADHD Expert: Dr. Vicki Panaccione